The Galliformes is an order of birds that comprises a variety of birds that range from domestic to wild birds. These are the birds that have the longest relationship with man for various reasons; not only that, their history goes way back to the Eocene period, around 50 million years ago. They include turkeys, quails, guans, chicken, and many others. The Galliformes have a large number of species that go up to 250.

They consist of two tribes; the Craci and the Phasiani. These birds have unique physical features that distinguish them from any other order. The most common one is the presence of a sturdy body with small wings and a small head. You can already see how the chicken and the turkey fit into this order. The smallest of these birds weighs 20 g while the largest weigh can weigh up to 10 kg. It is not uncommon to find that the domestic ones that are kept for their meat weighing up to 20 kg. Their length also varies from as short as 12 cm to 250. A Galliforme’s weight and length depends on a few things like its sex, tribe or habitat.

Galliformes are most commonly found on land because they are foragers. They tend to feed on seeds and certain parts of plants. They have large feet which they use to move stones so that they can be able to look for worms and other types of food from under them. Another source of food for them is insects and their larvae. Rarely, they eat stones which help in breaking down food in their bodies. Water is normally not included in their diets.

Most of the birds in the Galliforme family are flightless and can not fly. This means that most of them do not migrate; they would rather just stay in one place. Most of the birds in this order are quite lazy because even when feeding, it is likely that they will just move around in one very small area and stand still for hours on end. When grooming themselves, they choose to sit in a puddle and fluff their wings. A few of the birds that can migrate move long distances on foot.

When it comes to mating for the Galliformes, they tend to use their beautiful, conspicuous colors and other features that they possess to attract the female. These birds have strong loud vocals which they use to communicate with the other birds. The female lay eggs and take care of their young.

The most common birds that you and I know of that are of importance to man, are the turkey, chicken and the guinea fowl whose meat is quite nutritious. Their eggs are high in protein and are popularly used by man.

Most of Galliformes are used for hunting due to their inactive nature. This allows the shooters to have an easy time getting them. This is however, a dangerous habit that could see most of these birds become extinct.